Envisioning pristine, secluded beaches and rich, natural ecosystems to explore?
Look no further than Sanibel Island and its little sister, Captiva Island. This natural paradise boasts a beautiful coastline that attracts windsurfers and sailors. Some of the world’s largest seashells have also been found on the beaches of Sanibel Island. Combing these beautiful shores, you might be lucky enough to discover large conches and cockles. J.N “Ding” National Wildlife Refuge is also not to miss. Hundreds of species live in the area, including crocodiles and endangered manatees.
Part of the charm is Sanibel Island weather. With 80-degree weather from October until December, every day is a beach day. For optimal weather conditions and to avoid large crowds, late fall is one of the best times to visit Sanibel. In addition to the region’s natural splendor, there are plenty of fun local events near Sanibel to celebrate the fall and winter holidays.
Halloween
While October tends to be a pretty quiet time of year on Sanibel Island itself, only 25 miles away, Fort Myers is bustling with activity during the Halloween season! Stop by the 4th Annual Pumpkin Patch to pick out a pumpkin, take a tractor ride, and visit the petting zoo. The patch is open during the last three weekends of October.
The Calusa Haunted Walk takes you for a stroll along pitch-black Pine Loop Trail. Open every weekend of October, all proceeds go towards inspiring people to connect with nature.
A slightly less frightening alternative, the Fall Walk at the Naples Botanical Garden runs from October 17 to 31 and provides lights, live music, a pumpkin patch, and more!
Show up at Shula’s Steak House Naples on October 18 between 6 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. for an awesome Monster Bash Halloween Party! Delicious food, fun entertainment, and Halloween-tastic costumes – what’s not to love?
Boo at the Zoo takes place at Naples Zoo from October 25 to 27. Events will start daily at 10 a.m. and last until 3 p.m. Activities will include trick-or-treating, education stations, games, and a costume contest with prizes. Children 12 and under in costume will receive free admission to the zoo.
Thanksgiving
Don’t miss the most exciting fall event near Fort Myers Beach – the annual Master Sand Sculptors’ American Sandsculpting Championships! After a satisfying Thanksgiving meal, take a stroll on the beach to burn off some calories and view more than 40 incredible sand creations. The event takes place behind the Wyndham Garden Hotel and also includes art displays, live music, food and drinks, and activities for children.
What more could one be thankful for after spending Thanksgiving with friends and family on the shores of Sanibel Island? What about a Thanksgiving Sunset Dolphin Cruise? Adventures in Paradise offers this annual cruise Thanksgiving Day from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Soak in the sunset and search for dolphins in the peaceful San Carlos Bay after a fulfilling Thanksgiving dinner.
Christmas
Get into the holiday spirit by attending Fort Myers’ annual Beach Christmas Boat Parade at Matanzas Pass on December 7. Prepare to be dazzled by A Magical Cirque, filled with breathtaking circus performances and illusions. The show comes to Fort Myers on December 7, so buy your tickets now before they run out!
Join a Christmas Cookie Workshop on December 9 and 10, led by pastry chef Lexie of Sweetified. No experience is necessary to join the class, and you’ll walk away with 10 beautifully decorated cookies, armed with the knowledge to make more!
New Year’s
Head to the fishing pier of Fort Myers Beach for some fantastic New Year’s fireworks. Show up by 11:45 for the best views! Alternatively, spend your last hours of 2019 in downtown Fort Myers. Streets are alive with music, food, and more. Stick around until midnight for the ball drop at Bay and Hendry.
Sanibel Island Realty and Rentals
Considering spending your upcoming holidays on Sanibel Island? Looking for prime beachfront property for you and your loved ones? Schuldenfrei can assist you in your search of Sanibel listings to find the perfect home to meet all your needs.